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Parents must
remember that the unhappiness of the child is not top priority. David had two sons who tried to take the throne, and neither one had a right. Both were evil, and both intended harm to their father. It is obvious that David had a problem with discipline. He refused to acknowledge that first son had been evil, and even though he had to flee for his life, David made a fool of himself before all of Israel about the son's death, until Joab set him straight! The second son was just as bad. Tthe Bible says David never questioned anything the young man did - at any time. We are told these things for more than historical interest. We must learn. Both young men were unusually handsome, and quite obviously undisciplined. Tomorrow night I will write about spanking - usually done wrong, but if done right, should not need to be done often. But right now, listen to me: if your child cries, sometimes it is fine to reassure him (or her). But if he is crying about something that is not appropriate to cry about, tell him, and don't just try to get him to stop. Does he cry when he doesn't get the thing he wants? You must tell him that it's not a "cry" time. that's all. If he is three or under, he will learn in two weeks. But of all things, refrain from just trying to make him feel better. Of course there are times to present distractions, comfort, etc. But much, much too often, American parents have turned to making the child happy and giving him what he wants, so that he will no longer be distressed. We are producing a nation of wimps and spoiled complainers. read God's Word! Notice the warning signs. There is no perfect parent. One of the most remarkable parents I have ever seen told me today that he always feels inadequate! Probably no one has ever felt adequate. Children hold our hearts in their very hands - that is why we feel we have never done it right. But we can listen to the Lord. We are all learning, but there are road signs. Heed them, and move on! |
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